Insomnia

Insomnia is the inability to sleep through the night for most nights, for at least one month. Insomnia includes being unable to fall asleep, waking during the night or being unable to go back to sleep. Chronic insomnia is a serious health problem that needs attention. Most adults feel refreshed if they are able to get 8 hours of sleep per night. Other factors that may lead to insomnia are restless legs syndrome and sleep apnoea. Sleep apnoea is a condition where a person ceases breathing for a period of time, and is then awakened by their resulting lower level of oxygen, startled and gasping.

Causes of chronic insomnia: depression, anxiety, stress, grief, arthritis, asthma, hypoglycaemia, indigestion, muscle aches, Parkinson’s disease, caffeine consumption prior to sleeping, jet lags, drugs (e.g. appetite suppressants, anti-seizure medications), sedentary lifestyle and nutritional deficiencies.

Symptoms: decreased ability to perform tasks, personality changes, decreased productivity, inappropriate sleepiness and dozing off while talking or driving.

Who to consult: Dietician, GP, herbalist, homoeopath, meditation practitioner, naturopath, sleep therapist, pharmacist, psychologist, yoga practitioner.

Articles on Insomnia

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	What is Holistic Kinesiology? The natural medicine of holistic kinesiology can treat a range of ailments, including chronic pain, headaches, migraines, depression, learning difficulties, back pain, chronic fatigue, bed wetting, insomnia, and asthma.  Read More »
	Special Report - Sleep Sleep offers a chance for your body to heal and rejuvenate. Conversely, disrupted or altered sleep can have negative effects on your mental, emotional and physical health. Find out more about the importance of sleep in this special report  Read More »
	Aromatherapy at Home There are many classes of essential oils which are used by the professionals and that can easily be incorporated into DIY treatment blends, bringing the benefits of aromatherapy to your home!  Read More »
	Natural Therapies for Insomnia Do you lie awake at night thinking about your day, wishing that you could fall asleep and wondering how long it will take? Give these natural therapies a try and stop counting sheep for good!  Read More »

Tags: insomnia, sleep, night, apnoea, apnea, oxygen, gasp, depression, anxiety, stress, grief, arthritis, asthma